Coming into the season, the NFC South was widely regarded as the worst division in football. The Falcons and Saints were considered the favorites, followed by the Panthers and then the Buccaneers expected to finish last.
Though three games, it may be the surprise of the NFL season. Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler ESPNÂ talked about what they’ve changed their minds about since the start of the season; both mentioned the Falcons and the NFC South, along with the AFC North in the opposite manner.
If we’re staying with divisions, I’d go with the NFC South. It’s better than I thought. The Saints had a 3-0 start in their grasp in Green Bay. Tampa Bay and Atlanta have pretty good rosters, and if they can get enough out of their offenses with Baker Mayfield and Desmond Ridder, they might push for playoff spots.
It’s only been three games, so I expect regression to smack the Buccaneers in the face. Against the Eagles, Baker Mayfield looked awful, which is what most expected. Tampa Bay has overachieved to this point. Though they’re probably better than initially anticipated, they’re not a playoff team. They could finish ahead of the Panthers, though.
The Falcons and Saints are contenders; there’s no doubt about that. However, most fans of these clubs expected that. Moreover, I think the landscape of the NFC could result in both of them making the playoffs. The conference has three clear-cut title contenders in the 49ers, Cowboys, and Eagles. The Lions are also close to joining that conversation. Besides them, everything is up for grabs.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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